ROCHELLE, Ga. — The holiday season, often celebrated as the most wonderful time of the year, serves as a bittersweet reminder for one Central Georgia family of the struggles they’ve endured over the past year.
Vickey Parker and her family are navigating a tough path to recovery after losing their home to a devastating fire last December in Abbeville.
Earlier this year, we checked in with Vickey as she worked at a restaurant while staying in a hotel.
Unfortunately, the financial burden became too great, forcing her to move between friends and family, before temporarily settling in with the father of her children in Rochelle.
Despite these challenges, Vickey remains determined to rebuild her life.
"I just keep trying to make it work," the mom of four said.
Like many parents, Vickey strives to create a joyful holiday season for her children.
With four kids who adore characters like Stitch, Sonic and Spider-Man, Vickie is working hard to ensure they receive thoughtful gifts.
Earlier this year, she managed to purchase presents when she could afford to.
“It’s hard," Vickey acknowledged. "Sometimes I just want to give up because the cycle keeps repeating itself. I don’t know how to get out of it.”
Since the fire that happened on Dec. 12, the family has faced a series of obstacles, including housing instability and limited access to resources.
Vickie reached out to various agencies and organizations for assistance, but progress has been slow. “Sometimes, a family as big as mine stays on the waiting list for years,” she explained.
She also explained she doesn't have the same phone number or email associated with the original applications she sent out and doesn't recall which organizations she reached out to because there were so many.
Transportation remains another significant hurdle. Her '96 Nissan Maxima has several car problems that need a repairs. For now, she has friends and family checking in on the vehicle, but she hopes there's a solution soon.
Without reliable access to a vehicle, Vickie is searching for a job closer to her current residence.
“Coming back down here is like starting over,” she said. “I don’t know where to start except calling hotlines. I’d love to get the resources, but I’m overwhelmed.”
Despite the difficulties, Vickie remains steadfast in her efforts to provide for her family.
“I’m still pushing forward. I’m still trying. It’s exhausting, but anything for my babies, especially for Christmas," she said.
The Parkers are reaching out to the community for help, asking for any assistance that could help in any way.
Those interested in supporting the family can reach out to Vickey at kanowledge7@gmail.com and donate to their GoFundMe page online.
If you or someone you know is in need of resources after a disaster like Parker's, here is a list of resources available in Central Georgia:
- American Red Cross: The Red Cross provides temporary shelter, clothing, and essential items for those displaced by disasters. You can use their Shelter Finder tool to locate nearby shelters. Visit RedCross.org or call their hotline for assistance.
- United Way 211: Dial 211 to connect with local resources like housing assistance, food, and clothing. Their trained specialists can guide you to services specific to your situation. More information is available at 211.org.
- Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA): The DCA oversees programs like the Emergency Solutions Grant, which can provide rapid rehousing and support for individuals facing homelessness due to disasters. Visit Georgia DCA for details.
- Mental Health Support: The Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24/7 for emotional support at 1-800-985-5990. They offer multilingual assistance for coping with trauma.
- Salvation Army: The Salvation Army often provides emergency shelter, food, and clothing to those affected by disasters. Contact your nearest branch or check salvationarmyusa.org.
- Community Action Agencies in Georgia: These agencies provide housing support, utility assistance, and other relief services. Find one near Rochelle through the Georgia Community Action Association (gcaaonline.org).
- Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity offers support for rebuilding and repair of homes post-disaster. Contact your local affiliate or visit habitat.org.
- Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG): ESG programs in Georgia provide rapid rehousing and homeless prevention services. Contact your regional ESG provider through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (dca.georgia.gov).
School and Child Assistance: Contact your child’s school or the school district for temporary education resources, meals and emotional support for students affected by disasters. - Local Food Banks: Organizations like the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank can provide meals and groceries for families in need. Visit mgcfb.org to locate a food pantry near Rochelle.
- Middle Georgia Community Action Agency: Provides housing assistance, energy aid, and support for displaced individuals. Visit their site at mgcaa.org.